ACT-Wazalendo Secretary-General Ado Shaibu has raised a red flag over the embezzlement of funds intended for the Tanzania Social Action Fund (Tasaf), a program designed to uplift impoverished households across the country.
Tasaf, the Tanzania Social Action Fund, is a critical initiative aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing the living conditions of Tanzania’s most vulnerable communities. It provides direct cash transfers, material support, and funding for community-driven development projects, including infrastructure improvements, agricultural support, and social services.
By involving local communities in planning and execution, Tasaf ensures that projects address actual needs and foster a sense of ownership. The program also acts as a safety net during economic hardships, helping families maintain basic living standards. As well, Tasaf monitors and evaluates its interventions to ensure effectiveness and proper utilization of funds.
Addressing a crowd on August 7, 2024, in Rwamishenye ward, Bukoba Municipality, Shaibu called on the government to initiate a thorough investigation into the misuse of these essential funds, which are crucial for the survival of Tanzania's most vulnerable citizens.
Shaibu, who has been touring various regions, noted with dismay that the problem of Tasaf funds being siphoned off by corrupt officials is widespread, not just in Bukoba but across the nation. He emphasized that the Tasaf program, meant to alleviate poverty, has been hijacked by those in power, depriving the intended beneficiaries of their rightful support.
"The poverty in Kagera, despite its rich resources, is astonishing. The region should not continue to rank among the poorest in the country," Shaibu stated, questioning the effectiveness of the current leadership in addressing these critical issues. He underlined the urgent need for accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
Leaders from ACT-Wazalendo in Bukoba echoed Shaibu’s concerns, highlighting that corruption within the Tasaf program is only one of many challenges facing the region. Evodiu Justinian, the regional chairman, pointed out other pressing issues, including political favoritism in voter registration, exorbitant taxes on small businesses, excessive roadblocks, and mismanagement of Tasaf-funded development projects.
The fraudulent activities surrounding Tasaf funds have raised alarms not only among the opposition but also among the general public, who are increasingly disillusioned with the government's commitment to fighting corruption.
While Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has spoken out against corruption, critics argue that his efforts have been undermined by a lack of decisive action, particularly from President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The phrase "kula kwa urefu wa kamba yako" (eat according to the length of your rope), reportedly uttered by the President, has been interpreted by some as tacit approval for officials to engage in corrupt practices, as long as they do so discreetly.
This perception has had a crippling effect on the Prime Minister's anti-corruption campaign, leaving many Tanzanians questioning the sincerity of the government's stance on eradicating graft. The situation in Bukoba and other regions demands a more aggressive approach from the opposition, with Shaibu and his party leading the charge to demand accountability from the highest levels of government.
As the 2025 elections approach, the fight against corruption is set to become a defining issue that could determine the future direction of the nation.
The opposition's resolve to hold the government accountable will play a crucial role in shaping Tanzania’s political landscape, and the stakes could not be higher. The question remains: Will the government take the necessary steps to protect the most vulnerable, or will the culture of impunity continue to thrive unchecked?
